No matter where you are traveling, one of your main concerns will always be what kind of clothing to pack. This is especially necessary to think about if you have children. Often, airlines have limits as to how much your luggage can weigh, so you must be able to pack efficiently! By learning about Coast Rica's climate ahead of time, you can be sure to pack exactly what you need, and not have to spend money buying clothing when you get there!

Costa Rica is a tropical country, so instead of a winter and summer, they have a wet season and a dry season. However, even during the wet season, there's an average of 5 hours of sunshine every day, so be sure to pack your sunscreen! The dry season, the equivalent to our summer, lasts from December to April, with the rest of the year being the wet season, which is equivalent to our winter. During the wet season, some parts of reserves and other natural parks may be too flooded to visit, so keep this in mind.

Temperature doesn't change much from season to season, since you're so near to the equator when you visit Costa Rica. What does cause the temperature to change is your altitude. San Jose and other cities that are higher in elevation have a spring-like temperature year-round. However, near the coast of Costa Rica, you'll find much hotter and sunnier days. Be sure to pack accordingly for where you will be staying. Most people find it easier to stay in a hotel at a higher elevation so it is cooler to sleep at night and to do activities during the day. Near the beaches, the weather is usually very hot and humid, especially during the wet season.

As I mentioned before, you will surely want to bring sunscreen with you on your trip to Costa Rica. Remember to re-apply sunscreen often because you are nearer to the equator. You can also bring hats, sunglasses, and other clothing to help you stay safe in the sun. Pack a few light sweaters and pants as well. If you visit parts of the rain forest later at night or are at a higher elevation when the sun goes down, the air can get quite cool.

Before you leave on your Costa Rican vacation, check the local weather for where you will be staying. A number of good Internet resources can show you forecasts, or you can call your hotel and inquire about the weather conditions. By doing so, you can be sure that you'll pack in the best way possible.